Reptiles kept as pets are sometimes associated with the transmission of which organism?

Reptiles kept as pets are sometimes associated with the transmission of which organism?

• A. Campylobacter
• B. Helicobacter
• C. Salmonella
• D. Vibrio

Answer: (C)

Reptiles are common reservoirs for Salmonella, and these bacteria can be shed in reptile feces even when the animal looks healthy. People can become infected through handling the animal, its cage, or objects contaminated with feces or secretions, and then touching the mouth or food. This makes Salmonella transmission a well-recognized risk with pet reptiles, especially for children who may not practice perfect hand hygiene. The organism involved is a Gram-negative, motile rod that causes gastroenteritis, with symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, and it can be more serious in young, elderly, or immunocompromised individuals. Prevention centers on thorough handwashing after handling reptiles or their habitats, avoiding food preparation in areas where reptiles are kept, and keeping reptiles out of kitchens and areas where meals are prepared. Campylobacter, Helicobacter, and Vibrio are associated more with poultry, gastric ulcers, and seafood/water exposures, respectively, rather than being typical reptile reservoirs.

Reptiles are common reservoirs for Salmonella, and these bacteria can be shed in reptile feces even when the animal looks healthy. People can become infected through handling the animal, its cage, or objects contaminated with feces or secretions, and then touching the mouth or food. This makes Salmonella transmission a well-recognized risk with pet reptiles, especially for children who may not practice perfect hand hygiene. The organism involved is a Gram-negative, motile rod that causes gastroenteritis, with symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, and it can be more serious in young, elderly, or immunocompromised individuals. Prevention centers on thorough handwashing after handling reptiles or their habitats, avoiding food preparation in areas where reptiles are kept, and keeping reptiles out of kitchens and areas where meals are prepared. Campylobacter, Helicobacter, and Vibrio are associated more with poultry, gastric ulcers, and seafood/water exposures, respectively, rather than being typical reptile reservoirs.